2007 Ford Mustang Road Test Review
By Bob Plunkett

In its formative years, the 1964 Ford Mustang represented sporty design, value and performance. The soul of the car inspired many songs including the popular "Mustang Sally" by rhythm and blues singer Mack Rice. The 2007 Mustang usurps stylistic elements from the 60s giving the new car a bold "back to the future" feel. An exceptional engine and low wrap around driving position creates the cozy feel of driving in an era past. A surprisingly quiet cabin with John Lennon and Paul McCartney singing “Baby, you can drive my car, I’m going to be a star,” might enhance the authentic feel of this modern, yet iconic automobile.

When you look at the retro exterior of the 2007 Ford Mustang, the styling takes us back to an era when people preferred a minimal cabin unencumbered by electronics and gadgetry. The new Mustang communicates simplicity in design emanating from earlier models built in the 60s. For example, the prominent large front grill with round headlights recalls Mustangs from the 1967 to 1969 vintage; the sculpted side and broad taillights takes us back to 1964; the triangular side windows are reminiscent of Carol Shelby’s 1965 Shelby GT 350. Such details are not lost in the new interior either. The retro design of the speedometer has a certain jukebox feel, matching the cabin’s compelling fit and finish. The air ducts have a brushed metal look that is noticeably 1964 in style; the oversized steering wheel and color-coded speed dials that match the seats remind us of sipping a shake at a diner from the 60s. Retro design is the inspiring essence of the 2007 Ford Mustang.

Driving the 2007 Mustang takes some dexterity. Mustangs, after all, are the muscle cars from the decade of monumental social change. The clutch pedal and accelerator are well- positioned and there is abundant space within the cabin. The steering wheel is nimble, communicating good road feel. The only down side is that the five-speed gear shift is a bit clunky, requiring effort to be placed in gear properly. This is in sharp contrast with today’s popular short throw shifters that snuggle immediately into place. Driving this car requires some effort, but the ride quality is good with excellent braking. For longer drives, the seats are accommodating, but could use more lumbar support. Not diverting from what it was meant to be, the 2007 Mustang defines the paradox: modern classic.

The 2007 Mustang GT offers excellent value in its class based on its engine. The 4.6-liter V8 serves up 300 horses at 320 lbs. ft. of torque. The car reaches 0-60 mph in a mere 4.9 seconds with fuel efficiency of 17 mpg city, 25 mpg highway. The 4.0-liter V6 is standard on the base Mustang providing a 210 horsepower with fuel efficiency of 19 mpg city, and 28 mpg highway. A five-speed automatic is available as an option. The MSRP of $19,910 for the base and $31,145 for the GT keeps with the spirit of the 60s. The only drawback is the fuel economy for the V8 could be less thirsty.

The 2007 Mustang is available in many trims. For the V6 buyer, the Pony trim makes the most sense because it includes traction control in addition to upgraded suspension (with larger stabilizer bars), 17-inch wheels and fog lamps. Traction control enhances the road manners of this car enhancing road grip. The GT buyer in 2007 has the choice of 18 inch wheels, and more choices for personalized suspension tuning. All coupes have 50/50 split folding rear seats, but the convertible includes a well-insulated power top with a heated glass rear window. For additional safety, all Mustangs come with ABS and front side airbags designed for front and torso protection. Side airbags are available as an option, and we highly recommend you get them.

Historically, the Ford Mustang was commissioned by automotive pioneer Lee Iacocca, who in 1961, had a dream of building a mid-engine, two-seat convertible at an affordable price for the youth generation. The handsome car that represented his dream, rolled off the assembly line in Dearborn, Michigan on March 9, 1964. It was penned by David Ash and Joseph Oros, and was initially powered by a 105 horsepower engine mated to a three-speed manual transmission. Unveiled at the New York World Fair, the original Ford Mustang had a MSRP of $2,368, and was launched with visibility on all three TV networks. Soon after, the car became a national sensation, becoming the most successful launch in automotive history. The 2007 Ford Mustang successfully re-connects the dots with the past by capturing the spirit of the original icon.